09 Dec Episode 39: Hope in the Middle of War: How Ukrainian Students Are Turning to God
In Episode 39, Mike interviews Tolya (Tolik) Deminko, the National Campus Ministry Leader for CRU in Ukraine, about how God is working among university students during the ongoing war. This episode gives a ground-level look at Christian ministry in Ukraine, the spiritual hunger emerging on campuses, and how young people are responding to the Gospel in the middle of crisis.
Tolya shares firsthand stories from Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa—cities deeply impacted by the war. He explains how internally displaced students are finding Christian community, how CRU volunteers are serving sacrificially, and why the war has actually increased spiritual openness among many Ukrainian students.
You’ll hear:
- How campus ministry continues during missile attacks and power outages
- Why students who were once “culturally Orthodox” are now asking deeper questions about faith
- Stories of students placing their trust in Christ during wartime
- How a new student ministry in Odessa grew under untrained volunteers
- Tolya’s own crisis of faith and how God met him
- Why he and his family chose to remain in Kyiv despite the danger
- What Christian leaders in Ukraine need prayer for right now
If you care about missions in Ukraine, CRU/Campus Crusade, student evangelism, or want to know how God is moving during the war, this episode will inspire and challenge you.
Explore Storyline Missions:
Storyline Missions Website – Learn about our mission and vision.
Storyline Podcast Hub – Access all episodes and mission resources.
Storyline Blog – Read stories, updates, and insights from the field.
Support & Learn More:
Support Our Work in Ukraine – Partner with us to make a difference.
Learn About Tolya & Alyona Deminko’s Ministry – See how your support empowers ministry in Ukraine.
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